Family: Plotosidae
Plotosus lineatus — a Plotosidae from Indo-Pacific. Reaches 24–35.2 cm; keep at 22–30 °C.
Plotosus lineatus, a member of the family Plotosidae, comes from Indo-Pacific, where it inhabits coastal shallows, estuaries and reefs. Groups form; venomous spines — handle with care and carnivore; meaty sinking foods, it grows to 24–35.2 cm and adapts well to a properly set-up aquarium in the 22–30 °C range. In a community tank it pairs well with Similar-sized peaceful community fish.
A moderate-level species: groups form; venomous spines — handle with care; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.
Hold 22–30 °C and keep it stable — 22–30 °C curated husbandry range. Stable warm range; many tolerate brackish water.
Adults reach 24–35.2 cm; it is bottom-dwelling. Plan for at least 500 litres.
Carnivore; meaty sinking foods. It forages naturally over sand and rubble, so let some food reach the bottom.
Groups form; venomous spines — handle with care; keep in groups; they school tightly. Good company: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs. Keep away from Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.
Native to Indo-Pacific, where it lives in coastal shallows, estuaries and reefs. Moderate current; High oxygen appreciated.
In the aquarium: not bred in home aquaria. Hard to distinguish.